If a person goes through 4 years of pre-med and doesn't get accepted to Medical School, what career choices would be possible and how much longer would it take. Thanks

Hi Honey because there is no such animal as a pre-med degree just pre-med requirements, the sky is the limit. Meaning that you major in that which you enjoy, for example myself I am majoring (double major) in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis in Wellness Promotion and Biology, plus a minor in Chemistry. I could do a number of things when and if I did not get into medical school. From working at a cardiac rehab clinic, to becoming a manager/director for a fitness facility, personal training special populations, etc. this from my HHP degree. With the Bio degree there are also some options such as becoming a TA and pursuing a master/Ph.d, teaching elementary school, etc. With my chem minor I could further pursue another degree (which would be my first choice if not accepted) in the ACS chemistry major. So it just depends in what you major in. I would stay in school and continue my education and then re-apply again.

The first question you would ask yourself is whether you are still determined to be an MD.

If the answer is yes, look at why you may not have gotten in. How were your grades? MCAT scores? Did you have enough volunteer experience? Also, did you get your applications in late, how were your essays, etc. Did you get lots of interviews but no acceptance letters? We all know our own weakness... but everyone's application is different.

I have seen some of my premed classmates get a MPH, a Masters Degree (MBA, or even in Anatomy, Bio), or do a certificate program at some med schools, where they do a modified M1 program to show they could handle it. But you have to really get As in all the classes for them to let you in w/ the certificate.

Then reapply. I know several excellent doctors that tried three or four times before they were accepted into med school.

And if you are not sure, look into PA programs, MPH programs, OT, PT... there's tons more you can do both within the hospital system and outside of it.

All the best...

Linda
ETSU MS4